Overview & Reviews

Like many of the two dozen or so compact crossovers on the market today, the Nissan Rogue seeks to provide the all-weather capability and commanding driving position of an SUV, along with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of a typical car. It does this quite well, and it also adds bold, son-of-Murano styling to make it desirable for its form as well as its function.

Although the Nissan Rogue has never delivered an especially inspiring engine and transmission combination, performance has always been passable, and the current generation is notable for its stellar fuel economy. The second-generation Rogue also has a spacious interior with a large cargo hold and, rare for this class, an available third row of seating. Earlier Nissan Rogues weren't as roomy, but they were more nimble to drive through turns. Overall, we think a new or used Rogue presents a compelling overall package that merits consideration alongside traditional segment leaders.

Current Nissan Rogue
Completely redesigned for 2014, the current Nissan Rogue is a compact crossover SUV with seating for five or seven, depending on how it's equipped. Compared with the previous Rogue, it offers a much larger backseat, significantly more cargo capacity, higher fuel economy ratings and a longer list of safety features.

All Nissan Rogues are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is standard, and buyers have a choice between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. With either drivetrain, fuel economy ratings are above average for this class.

The Rogue is available in three trim levels: S, SV and SL. Standard equipment on the base S includes 17-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, iPod/USB connectivity and a four-speaker sound system. The SV adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry and ignition, a power-adjustable driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, smartphone integration features and a six-speaker sound system. The SL comes with all that plus 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, heated mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, voice controls, a 360-degree parking camera system, a navigation system (with a 7-inch touchscreen) and a nine-speaker sound system.

Key options include a two-passenger third-row seat (S and SV models only), a power liftgate and a panoramic sunroof. Optional safety equipment includes a blind-spot warning system, a lane-departure warning system, a forward collision warning system and "moving object detection" (which works in conjunction with the multi-view parking cameras).

One thing we always liked about the original Nissan Rogue that has carried over to the second generation is the smooth ride quality. Neither the steering nor the handling is particularly sporty, but most buyers will appreciate the Rogue's relaxed demeanor. In reviews, we've found the Nissan's 2.5-liter engine adequate to the task of commuting. During harder acceleration, there's a noticeable growl from the engine as the CVT maintains a constant high engine rpm to provide the motivation needed for passing and merging. This makes for a noisier cabin environment than in some competitors.

Otherwise, the Rogue's cabin is a pretty nice place to be. Materials quality is high, and everything is put together with care. Nissan's available infotainment interface is quite easy to use as well. Seat comfort is excellent in the first two rows, and thanks to 9 inches of fore/aft adjustment, the 40/20/40 second-row seat is adult-friendly. The available third-row bench is a kids-only proposition, but the fact that Nissan offers one at all gives the Rogue a leg up on its rivals from Ford, Honda and Toyota.

Used Nissan Rogue Models
The first-generation Rogue debuted for the 2008 model year and was produced through 2013. After 2013, this Rogue continued on as the Nissan Rogue Select (reviewed separately), which is identical save for its abbreviated options list.

The original Nissan Rogue used the same 170-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine as the current model. All versions were offered in both front-wheel- and all-wheel-drive configurations, and a CVT was standard.

First-generation Nissan Rogues were available in two trim levels: S and SV (known as the SL from 2008-'10). You got the basics with the S, including keyless entry, air-conditioning and full power accessories, along with an iPod interface. However, things like privacy glass, a rearview camera, Bluetooth and satellite radio were available either within an option package or on the SV. Higher-end items like heated leather seats, a navigation system and a Bose sound system were available as options on the SV as well.

Like the current crossover, the first-generation Rogue offered a smooth, comfortable ride. Handling was actually a bit sportier than on the current version, while acceleration was fairly quick for a small four-cylinder crossover. However, engine noise was a persistent annoyance during passing maneuvers, as the CVT kept engine revs high to maximize the available power.

Styling is a subjective matter, of course, but to our eyes, the first-gen Rogue cut a rather dashing profile compared to its compact crossover brethren. Rear visibility consequently suffered, as did cargo capacity and rear-seat accommodations. Although this Rogue represents a good value as a used vehicle, shoppers needing room for child safety seats or a large dog will likely find it short on space.

Changes to the Nissan Rogue were minimal during this generation. It received minor styling updates for 2011, and trim levels and option packages were reshuffled over the years. For 2010-'11, the Rogue was offered in a Krom Edition model, which added larger wheels and cosmetic enhancements, including centrally located exhaust outlets.

User Reviews:

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  great value - 2016 Nissan Rogue
  By Todd - November 16 - 1:03 am

  I purchased a 2016 Nissan Rogue SL AWD with the premium package and love it. It is very fuel efficient, drives smooth, holds the road and corners excellent for this class SUV. Comes with a ton of tech and safety features for the money. Great value. Would definitely buy again.

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  If you live in the Mountains READ THIS - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By Bob - November 13 - 7:36 pm

  So far not too many issues with this car. The car was a great price for what you get. The mileage is a bit less than expected. We live in a place some would call "off the beaten path" so I do have one major issue. The CVT is NOT designed for mud, snow or mountain driving. This is the first car Ive owned with the CVT and will be the last. A belt drive should be left for flatlanders, ATVs and snowmobiles. When you try to back over a small snowbank or rut you must gun it or you will burn the belt. This type of transmission requires some momentum to properly engage and that is not always an option.

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  A solid CUV - 2013 Nissan Rogue
  By terrancesneed - October 25 - 2:24 pm

  I purchased my Rogue in June of 2013. So far, it has proven to be a reliable, comfortable, and fun to drive vehicle. I test drove The Jeep Patriot, Toyota Rav-4, and Ford Escape, before choosing the Rogue. The Rav-4 and Escape were nice, but were pricey. As for the Patriot; no comment smh. The Rogues smooth ride, decent acceleration, nice handling, and fair asking price were what sold me. The CVT does take some getting use to, but it serves it purpose. MPG ranges between 23.5 and 26.7. Only issue I have is I wish it was just a bit larger. The cargo space is modest but I knew that when I bought it. Overall its a good vehicle, although I think a Tucson or Sportage gives more bang for buck.

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  second rogue (LAST?) - 2009 Nissan Rogue
  By douglas - October 24 - 4:10 am

  This is the second Rogue we have purchased(had an 2008) We had electrical problems with the first one that were taken care of by the selling dealer. The one we have now also has had electrical problems with the keyless system. The selling dealer has been great but nissan has dropped trhe ball. After 3 times not repaired ( writing this review while waiting in dealership) If not fixed this time want it replaced. we do like the vehicle, averages 27 MPG rides well, handles well on interstate(9455 miles). But will probably not buy another due to 2 for 2 having electrical issues. Like the sound system not so happy with CVT (had a 2007 Maxima with CVT didnt like the trans).

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  Great value, reliable, fun, and nice interior! - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By tagamasid1023 - October 20 - 11:44 am

  Glad that we chose the Rouge and didnt follow the stereotypical Toyota and Honda advice. Our Rouge is now a year and half old (9400 miles) and still very reliable. Fuel efficiency is amazing, but it greatly depends on ones driving style - learn to maximize the CVTs advantage and youll save a lot of fuel! The Rouge meets all our demands and needs. The cargo space is fine with us, since we dont load a lot of stuff. I noticed the engine "drone" happens when the engine is not sufficiently warmed up in the morning, especially during winter. Nevertheless, I wouldnt trade the Rouge for a CRV or RAV4.

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  Ideal choice for Singles and Small Family - 2012 Nissan Rogue
  By supragya - October 11 - 7:12 pm

  Bought Nissan Rogue 2012 S AWD Special Edition. Requirement - Looking for a crossover which could address the requirements for small family (couple and an infant) and it fit the bill perfectly. - AWD - We get lot of snow here in Phily and AWD became a necessity. Rationale and Decision Making. - Special Edition provided very good value esp with the reverse parking camera (and 15" aluminium wheels, steering mounted controls, privacy glass, decent audio system) and fog lamps; a must for this SUV which huge D Pillars which limits visibility.

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  I Like Rogue - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By JoeD - October 11 - 7:59 am

  Learn about CVT transmissions and treat them nice and you will love them!

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  A Good Choice - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By LesMan - October 10 - 1:40 pm

  Ive owned the Rogue for over a month and and am very happy so far. My choice was down to the Rogue vs. the new Honda CRV. While its hard to find anything wrong with the CRV, I was able to get the fully-loaded AWD Rogue for several thousand cheaper than a similar CRV. Also with Honda you have to add things like fog lights, compass mirror and roof rack after purchase, which is a hassle. This SUV is fun to drive, has good power and lots of cool features that come with the SL AWD. It takes a while to get used to the CVT and the engine is a bit noisy accelerating up hills, but otherwise smooth. The Bose sound system is a must - one of the cleanest sounds Ive heard in a car.

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  Best Compact SUV - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By GMan - October 3 - 10:06 pm

  Just got a new Rogue SL AWD in Venom Red with gray cloth interior. What a great little SUV! I tried the CRV and RAV4 before deciding on the Rogue. The CVT is great. Very quiet. Try the Rogue, youll be happy!

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  Nissans Best Crossover - 2008 Nissan Rogue
  By frenchman - October 1 - 12:00 pm

  If you test drive it, you will buy it. Its the best crossover for the money out there, period. It has great features, fun to drive, great price, and superb build quality. I have had the pleasure of buying and owning some 94 other vehicles in my lifetime and this is in the top five. My compliments to the factory engineering and design staff at Nissan. Nissan dealers have some great and fun vehicles to sell us.